Codependency and Addiction

Posted on Mar 08, 2017

120000

Codependency and addiction appear to be more connected as experts continue to explore the psychology of addicts and those who love them. Seen in many families who have a loved one suffering from addiction, codependency is a fine line to walk when trying to decide whether you are helping or hurting. Many addicts are master manipulators, and if you pair that with an enabling parent or partner, it can lead to a vicious cycle of lying, stealing, and relapse.

We all want to see our loved ones recover. For many, it is the thing that parents or family members want above all else. The peace that comes with finding out the person you care about most is happy and safe is a relief that millions across the world hope for every night. But learning to walk the tightrope of when to hold out a hand, and when to say no, is a difficult situation that is hard to navigate.

Mental Health America lists some of the characteristics of people struggling with codependency as having an exaggerated sense of responsibility for the actions of others, becoming hurt when people don’t recognize their efforts, unhealthy dependence on relationships (to avoid the feeling of abandonment), a sense of guilt when asserting themselves, problems with intimacy/boundaries, and having difficulty making decisions. These behaviors and thoughts are often seen in those who want to help the addict they love, but don’t quite know how.

There is hope. Psychology Today has stated that therapy, self-help, and support groups and 12 step fellowships are a great way to start curbing codependent behaviors and stopping the cycle of misery.

Our team of clinicians at Infinite Recovery are dedicated to healing the entire family and improving client stability through the 8 Dimensions of Infinite Wellness. With two day family intensive programming that addresses all the family dynamics, we aim to heal the challenges, barriers, and wounds of all the family. Our trained clinicians and staff are also firm believers in individual sessions that are meant to look at how families interact as well as personalized family sessions so that we may get a more in depth look at how the family functions as a whole and how we can begin to help them heal. The road to recovery is sometimes viewed as long and arduous, but with the love and support of our families, the path is much more fulfilling.

If you or a loved one are struggling with codependency, addiction, or alcoholism, get help now. We offer a confidential hotline at (844) 206-9063 and our admissions team is available 24/7 online.